Chapter 21
Hi everyone, new chapter. I have really important exams soon, but I actually haven't abandoned this fic
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"Francis." Arthur placed his mug onto the table, avoiding Francis's gaze in favour of the view. His friend was resting his cheek on his palm, with his elbow on the glass table. He knew better than to pretend he wasn't watching Arthur's every move- Arthur always knew when Francis was watching. He could feel his eyes, gazing with gentle intensity. It was unfortunate that it meant
Arthur scanned the skyrise, Paris was such a beautiful historic city, he remembered the wonderful days where horse drawn carriages and markets were commonplace, but modern Paris certainly held unique charm. Almost as much charm as Francis.
Arthur steeled himself, meeting his friend's clear blue eyes, no hesitation.
"I know that you're in love with me."
The blonde froze, but before he could splutter in protest, Arthur raised a hand to stop him.
"At one point in our lives, knowing that would have meant absolutely everything to me. It does still mean a great deal to me now. However, I haven't seen you that way in a very long time- I thought that we had too much bad blood between us for a romantic relationship to be sustainable."
Francis frowned. He and Arthur had their differences, but they had worked through them. There was no place for thousand year old grudges in the 21st century, when co-operation was essential to ensure peace. Francis loved Arthur, and he knew that now they could make things work, that this time would be different.
"Despite my previous opinion, I am willing to let you court me, properly this time. With the aim of marriage in mind- we both know that if we don't take this seriously it will end very badly for both of us."
Francis gave Arthur a radiant smile, he moved from his chair and enveloped Arthur in a fierce hug.
"Mon petite lapin, thank you! I promise you that I'll make you happy."
"I hope so too. We all deserve more happiness these days." Arthur gently patted Francis's back, breathing in his strawberry shampoo.
"Will we be informing everyone?"
Arthur paused, contemplating the idea.
"No. Not yet. I want to see if this will work first, before setting everyone off like rabid dogs."
"Ah, oui. They do act rather... ravenous when it comes to you Cherie." Francis tightened his grip with a frown.
"I'll at least tell my siblings, Alistair will be pleased."
"He thinks that I'm the one best suited for you." Francis murmured into his ear.
"I agree that we have potential." Arthur said, rather breathlessly.
"That's practically a declaration of devotion from you" Francis chuckled, finally relinquishing his grasp, albeit reluctantly, in order to tidy up the breakfast dishes.
"I do like you Francis, and I know that in time I will love you more than anything else in the world. We're a good match, a perfect match."
"I'm glad that you agree" Francis pressed his lips to Arthur's in a gentle kiss, before moving towards the kitchen, balancing the plates in one hand and humming cheerfully.